Use the Best Sources
Popular communication informs and entertains the general public. Magazines like Time and Sports Illustrated are examples of popular sources.
Scholarly communication distributes research and academic discussion among professionals within disciplines. These journals may also be called Academic or Peer-Reviewed Journals. Journals such as Reading Research Quarterly and Journal of Forensic Nursing are examples of scholarly sources.
Trade journals inform people in a profession or industry about the latest news, trends, and technology in the field. Advertising Age and Mathematics Teaching in the Middle School are examples of trade journals.
Read By: the General Public
Written By: Reporters and Journalists
Reviewed by: Editors and Publishers
Include: Non-Technical Language
No Bibliographies
Appearance: Attractive Layout
Includes Advertisements
Read By: Scholars; Professionals in the field
Written by: Scholars; Professionals in the field
Reviewed By: Panel of experts in the field
Include: Original Research
Technical Language
Bibliographies
Appearance: Dense Text
Fewer, Specialized Ads
Read By: Professionals in a Field or Industry
Written By: Professionals or Scholars in the Field
Reviewed By: Editor
Include: Articles to Inform People in the Field
Short Articles
Position Openings
Appearance: Specialized Ads